Domestic violence perpetrators learn they are not the victim in unique Perth rehabilitation program from ABC News, 02/24/2016

It is usually the victims in violent relationships who are forced to leave their homes and seek refuge, but a first-of-its-kind residential program in Perth is removing the perpetrators.

When Steve thinks about the time he broke his wife’s nose, he’s disgusted in himself.

He’s just completed his first week at Breathing Space – a residential program for domestic violence perpetrators run out of a house in suburban Perth that has the backing of high profile campaigner Rosie Batty.

It’s confronting and difficult at times, but he and the group of men staying at the house with him are not the victims, and for the 12 weeks they live there, they’ll be constantly reminded of that.Like many of the men who end up there, Steve has been heavily into drugs and in and out of jail.He’s determined to end that cycle and is hoping this unique program will help.

Skin-to-skin contact promotes bonding and offers a host of other benefits to babies, dads, and parenting couples. ICADV's Skin to Skin campaign invites men into nurturing caregiving relationships with their children.

NRCDV is proud to offer "My #1Thing," a new 4-part series for DVAM. Each Thursday in October, we will feature the stories from advocates, survivors, and other community members who are working to end gender-based violence.

This Domestic Violence Awareness Month, we're talking about the importance of civic engagement and highlighting the connections between how we vote and the policies that impact survivors’ lives. Check out our October blog post to learn more!